Mercedes-Benz EQC 400 joins the all-electric auto bandwagon

Javier Moore |Friday, September 07, 2018

Mercedes-Benz EQC prototype testing in Black Forest

After a lot of trailers and teasers, including "official spy photos" in full camouflage, Mercedes-Benz has finally unveiled the EQC electric SUV ahead of the groundbreaking new model's public debut at next month's Paris Motor Show.

It seems that vehicle makers are busier than ever trying to score points off each other in the race to bring electric cars to market, and grab the car-buying public's attention. The company never hid the fact that concept was meant to preview the real deal, and indeed, it did just that. As such, luxury and space are in similar supply to the GLC-Class, making it easy for those shopping for a gas or diesel-engined crossover or SUV with these features and dimensions to choose an electric vehicle instead.

Of course, we can't comment on the handling of the vehicle yet, and there's always the pull of that Mercedes badge and image to lure in customers, so maybe it will be able to corner a section of the market regardless. Even Bentley has plans for an all-electric ultraluxury sedan by 2020.

The EQC 400 has a wide three-dimensional black-panel grille with seven different options of 21-inch bicolor wheels and torchlike daytime running headlights; the low shoulder-line has a coupelike roof and simulated air inlets in high-gloss black that run along the sides.

After much teasing, Mercedes-Benz has formally taken the wraps off the its EQC SUV. A slide-open sunroof, heated seats, and regenerative braking come standard.

The 80kWh battery is touted to provide a range of more than 450km, while intelligent navigation and predictive cruise control assist in effective, smart energy management. A dual-motor electric drivetrain drives each axle for a combined output of 402 horsepower and 564 pound-feet of immediate torque.

The EQC was revealed in Stockholm Tuesday and its initial range estimate disappointed when compared to its chief market rivals.

The Porsche Taycan is a fully electric sports auto.

The Mercedes EQC SUV is the first in a list of 10 electric vehicles planned by Mercedes-Benz to be available before 2022.

The Mercedes EQC supports up to 110kW fast charging that can juice up the batteries from 10 to 80 per cent in around 40 minutes. However, Mercedes-Benz seemed to have second thoughts about the driving range communicated for the USA - perhaps after criticism that 200 miles didn't quite cut it.

Mercedes-Benz, the world's largest maker of luxury automobiles, is rolling out its first in a series of battery-powered vehicles, adding to a growing array of high-end brands targeting Tesla Inc.

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